Kobe Keeps No. 4 Ranking Among Highest-Paid Pro Athletes

The trio of Kobe Bryant (left), Dwight Howard and Pau Gasol may face an uncertain future with the Los Angeles Lakers, but all three made Sports Illustrated's "Fortunate 50" list. (credit: Harry How/Getty Images)

LOS ANGELES (CBSLA.com) — Even after an underachieving season by the Los Angeles Lakers marred by injuries and in-fighting, Kobe Bryant is still one of the highest-earning athletes in pro sports.

Bryant maintained his No. 4 ranking on the 10th annual SPORTS ILLUSTRATED (SI) Fortunate 50, raking in over $46.8 million in overall earnings, including $27.8 million in salary and $19 million in endorsements.

While the 34-year-old future Hall-of-Famer is no longer attracting new deals from sponsors, he still has a long-term deal with Nike along with contracts with smaller brands including Lenovo and SmartCar, according to SI.

Bryant’s season came to an untimely end after he suffered a season-ending torn Achilles tendon during an April 12 game against the Golden State Warriors. He underwent successful surgery and is expected to be sidelined for as long as nine months.